22 May 2014

What Kind of Nation? – Seven cities tour

Scotland stands at a crossroads. On 18 September 2014, the people of Scotland will vote on the most important decision in the nation's history: does it vote to continue as a member of the United Kingdom, or does it vote to become an independent country?

As part of the Alliance's contribution to the debate around this decision, we published our manifesto, What Kind of Nation?, looking at some of the issues raised in this debate, around families, society, the economy and the environment.

This debate is about so much more than money, whether we'd be better or worse off, and by how much. Whatever the outcome of the vote in September, we want the legacy of this decision to impact upon the political discussion we have in Scotland in all areas, from how we tackle poverty and the rise in foodbanks, to how we ensure our justice system ensures justice for victims and a fair trial for the accused, to how can best we support families and children.It is a golden opportunity for the church to engage with the political discussion in Scotland and to share a Christian vision of what Scotland could look like.

As part of this conversation, the Alliance has organised a seven-date hustings tour around the country, where we will be taking themes from our manifesto, and giving the opportunity for high profile politicians from both sides to engage with ordinary Scots from the church and wider community.

Taking a Question Time style format, the panellists will be given an opportunity to articulate their vision for Scotland and there will also be opportunities for wider discussion and participation. We are delighted with the calibre of politicians who have agreed to take part in this debate and hope you will join us as together we seek to answer the question: What Kind of Nation?